Health Advice That May Save Your Life

At JCHC, we recommend wellness screening tests as a great way to stay healthy. In our building, almost all of the recommended screenings can be done. Just schedule an appointment with your family doctor to discuss which tests are appropriate for you. Here are the basic screening tests that are recommended.

Screening Tests For Women:

Pap test (cervical cancer) — Every three years if results are negative for three consecutive years; annually if you smoke or have multiple sex partners.

Mammography (breast cancer) — Annually for all women 40 and over.

Bone density test (osteoporosis) — Once every two years beginning at age 65. Women with risk factors, as determined by their primary care providers, should begin at age 60.

Screening Tests For Men:

Prostate specific antigen test and digital rectal exam (prostate cancer) — Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Most publications are saying that the PSA test isn’t recommended for some men anymore. Black men and men with a family history of prostate cancer should begin annual screening at age 40. Others should begin at age 50.

Blood pressure check (cardiovascular disease) — Once every two years; more frequently for people over 60 or with readings over 120/80 mm Hg.

Cholesterol and triglyceride levels check (cardiovascular disease) — Once every five years; more frequently for people with a family history of heart disease.

Colonoscopy (colon cancer)– once every 10 years after age 50. Earlier if you have a family history of colon cancer. Discuss your family history and when you should be screened with your doctor.

Fasting blood glucose test (diabetes) — Every two to three years; more often if you’re at high risk.

Glaucoma screening test — Every three to five years; more often for people with diabetes or family history of glaucoma.

Dental cleaning and exam — Every six months.

Baseline EKG—every 5 years.

Immunizations for everyone

Tetnus shot – every 10 years

Pneumovax— every 10 years

Flu Shot—every year

As with all medical advice, visit with your family physician to see what is best for your indivudual case. These recommendations are based on what the United States Preventive Task Force Recommends for the general population.